Hajj

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The Hajj or Haj (Arabic حَجّ Ḥaǧǧ) is the Pilgrimage to Mecca (or, "Makkah") and is the fifth of the "Five Pillars of Islam" in Sunni Islam and is one of the eleven Branches of Religion in Shi'a Islam. Every able-bodied Muslim who can afford to do so is obliged to make the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a lifetime. The government of Saudi Arabia issues special visas to foreigners for the purpose of the pilgrimage, which takes place during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. However, entrance to the city itself is forbidden to non-Muslims, and the entire city is considered a holy site to Islam.

Related Topics:
Arabic - Five Pillars of Islam - Branches of Religion - Muslim - Pilgrimage - Mecca - Saudi Arabia - Visas - Islamic month - Dhu al-Hijjah - Islam

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Many people go to Mecca (Makkah) in groups with their friends or family, or friends from the local mosque, so as to save money. Some airlines do special package holidays for Muslims going to Mecca. Due to Saudi culture, and fear for their safety, a woman is not permitted to go to Mecca without being accompanied by a male relation: she must be with her father or husband or brother.

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While in Mecca, male pilgrims are required to dress only in an ihram, a garment consisting of two sheets of white unhemmed cloth, the top draped over the torso and the bottom secured by a belt; plus a pair of sandals. The ihram is intended to show the equality of all pilgrims in the eyes of Allah, as there is no difference between a prince and a pauper when everyone is dressed equally.

Related Topics:
Ihram - Hem - Torso - Belt - Sandal

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